Endangered ‘Chop’ Iguana Faces Extinction Due to Real Estate Boom

A man has been left with severe injuries after being gored by a bull in the José María Morelos region. Meanwhile, the Yucatan Peninsula's 'chop' lizard, a species of iguana, is on the brink of extinction due to ongoing real estate development. The rapid urbanization is causing the loss of this endemic species' habitat, posing a significant threat to its existence.

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The 'chop' iguana, scientifically known as Cachryx defensor, is facing a looming extinction threat due to the expanding real estate development in the Yucatan Peninsula. This species primarily inhabits the coastal areas, particularly around the towns of Progreso, Sisal, Chicxulub Puerto, and other nearby locations. The habitat loss for this lizard is quite dramatic.

Luis Fernando Díaz Gamboa, a member of the Yucatan Amphibians and Reptiles Conservation Network, expressed his concern about this situation. He explained that this isn't just a worrying issue, but an emergency. The 'chop' is an endemic species to the region and could disappear if the current pace of development continues. "The iguanas lose their habitat because they live in tree trunks. They can be found in coastal towns like Komchén or Sierra Papacal, where their habitats are being destroyed," he said.

According to the biologist, these are mathematical estimates used to predict the potential extinction of the species. The loss of their natural habitats is the primary cause. However, this issue isn't exclusive to the 'chop' iguana; other mammals and birds are also facing similar challenges.

Celia Selem, a research professor at the Autonomous University of Yucatan (UADY), pointed out that the city of Merida has been expanding at an exponential rate. This growth is evident with each new development reaching the coasts and jungles. "Green spaces are dwindling, and we are losing mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and other types of fauna. All these species contribute to ecosystem services," she explained. The critical question remains: where will these displaced animals go now? Many of them have nowhere to go, and when they venture into new subdivisions, they are often killed out of fear.

Selem urged developers to ensure their projects are environmentally friendly and respect the local flora and fauna. As for the 'chop' iguana, which is gradually losing its habitat, it can be found in Campeche, northwest Yucatan, and Quintana Roo. Males of this species are generally larger than females.